The old exams only lasted for 7 years IF you got the IR within 3 years. It's still the same really, except they've extended the exam expiry until after the IR (or type rating for the ATPL VFR) expiry. If you don't get your IR within 3 years under current rules, it looks as if you still lose them.
If you have a CPL(H), you are exempt POF and VFR comms for the full ATP so you would only need to take 12 exams, not 14.
Phil